Hybrid Conference Experiences in the ARENA

We propose supporting hybrid conference experiences using the Augmented Reality Edge Network Architecture (ARENA). ARENA is a platform based on web technologies that simplifies the creation of collaborative mixed reality for standard Web Browsers (Chrome, Firefox) in VR, Headset AR/VR Browsers (Magic Leap, Hololens, Oculus Quest 2), and mobile AR (WebXR Viewer for iOS, Chrome with experimental flags for Android, and our own custom WebXR fork for iOS). We use a 3D scan of the conference venue as the backdrop environment for remote users and a model to stage various AR interactions for in-person users. Remote participants can use VR in a browser or a VR headset to navigate the scene. In-person participants can use AR headsets or mobile AR through WebXR browsers to see and hear remote users. ARENA can scale up to hundreds of users in the same scene and provides audio and video with spatial sound that can more closely capture real-world interactions.